If the distance between the plates of parallel plates condenser is increased, its potential will:

Correct answer: B. Increase

  • A. Remain the same
  • B. Increase
  • C. Decrease
  • D. Decrease exponentially

Explanation

When the distance between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor is increased, the capacitance (C) decreases, given a constant charge (Q) on the plates. According to the formula for electric potential difference, V = Q/C, as capacitance decreases, the potential difference V must increase to maintain the relationship. Therefore, the correct answer is that the potential will increase. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the fundamental relationship between distance and potential difference in a capacitor. Specifically, Option A suggests no change, Option C suggests a decrease, and Option D incorrectly states an exponential relationship.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Electrostatics

Electrostatics describes forces between charges through Coulomb's law, electric fields and field intensity, then uses electric potential to measure energy per unit charge. Capacitors store charge and electrical energy, with capacitance depending on geometry and dielectric material, not simply on the amount of charge present.

Practise Electrostatics

831 free Electrostatics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Electrostatics questions